Cake Decoration System

ABSTRACT

A cake decoration that enables visual shows controlled by a controller that is either remote to the decoration or integral with the decoration.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to the U.S. Pat. No. 11,641,860,filed on Nov. 20, 2019, titled CAKE DECORATION, that claims priority tothe U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/769,962, filed on Nov. 20, 2018,titled CAKE DECORATION and all are incorporated by reference fullyherein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to holiday decorations and, moreparticularly, to food decoration.

BACKGROUND

It is common for celebrations, such as holidays and birthdays to becelebrated with food, such as cakes. Traditionally frosting is used todecorate cakes for different occasions and writing messages. Within thelast few years, printing with edible ink has been used with frosting toallow images to be placed on cakes. In addition to the frosting,candles, candleholders, and plastic devices, such as toys and images,have been put on cakes. But, candles and frosting decorations arefleeting and have limited reusability. Further, the designs and types ofdecorations are limited.

SUMMARY

Reusable decorations for food that enable light and sound to beintegrated into a display. The decorations may be controlled by awireless device or self-contained in the decoration. Audio and visualdisplay performances are created and executed by the decoration devices.

In some embodiments a cake decoration device (“CDD”) or a plurality ofCDDs that communicates and/or interacts with one or more CDDs and/or oneor more external devices. Such configurations of the invention aresometimes referred to as a cake display system (“CDS”).

Other devices, apparatus, systems, methods, features, and advantages ofthe invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill in theart upon examination of the following figures and detailed description.It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description, be within the scope ofthe invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood by referring to the followingfigures. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale,emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of theinvention. In the figures, like reference numerals designatecorresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a candle holder with a candle having a controlarea and flame detector in accordance with an example implementation ofthe invention.

FIG. 2A is a diagram of the candle holder of FIG. 1 with thelight-emitting elements illuminated in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 2B is a diagram of the candle holder of FIG. 1 with an offsetcandle holder well in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 3 is a diagram of multiple candle holders, as depicted in FIG. 1 ,that communicate between themselves and a smart device in accordancewith an example implementation.

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a candle holder with a display and a candle inaccordance with an example implementation of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram of the candle holder of FIG. 4 that has a camera,microphone, and speaker in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 6 is a diagram of candle holders that couple together with a busthat enables communication and emits light in accordance with an exampleimplementation of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram of a display resting on top of a cake with acontroller and power supply located in a base in accordance with anexample implementation of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a display around the side circumference of thecake with a power supply and controller located in a base in accordancewith an example implementation of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a screen dome located on top of a cake thatreceives a projection from a projector with a controller and powersupply located in a base in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 10 is a diagram of a candle holder with a microphone and a camerain accordance with an example implementation of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a candle holder with a screen located around theoutside circumference with a microphone and a camera in accordance withan example implementation of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a candle holder with a display located aroundthe top with a microphone and a camera in accordance with an exampleimplementation of the invention. Detailed Description

FIG. 13 is a diagram of the candle holder of FIG. 1 with wiresconnecting the candle through the cake to the controller and powersupply located in a base in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 14 is a diagram of a block candle holder with a display screen atopa cake in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of the candle holder of FIG. 1 with wiresconnecting the candle through the cake to the controller and powersupply located in a base in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of the candle of FIG. 4 in accordance with anexample implementation.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the induction powering of a displaylocated on a cake of FIG. 7 in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a cake display system with displays,candles, and motor in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 19 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication with an interface to create a CDS account in accordance withan example implementation.

FIG. 20 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication with a system setup interface in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 21 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication with a new system setup interface in accordance with anexample implementation.

FIG. 22 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that adds a system HUB in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 23 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that identifies the system HUB of FIG. 22 in accordance withan example implementation.

FIG. 24 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication pairs the system HUB of FIG. 22 in accordance with anexample implementation.

FIG. 25 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication and configures WiFi for the system HUB of FIG. 22 inaccordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 26 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication for accessing WiFi from the system HUB of FIG. 22 inaccordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 27 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that adds a CDS device in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 28 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that adds a CDS device in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 29 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that controls a “show” in accordance with an exampleimplementation.

FIG. 30 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that lists the CDS devices configured in the CDS inaccordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 31 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that lists the playlist of shows in accordance with anexample implementation.

FIG. 32 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that enables content in the CDS in accordance with anexample implementation.

FIG. 33 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that enables content to be edited in the CDS in accordancewith an example implementation.

FIG. 34 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that further enables content to be edited in the CDS inaccordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 35 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that enables special effects to be added to content in theCDS in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 36 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that enables special effects of layering to be added tocontent in the CDS in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 37 is a diagram of a screen of a smart device that executes a CDSapplication that enables special effects of patterns to be added tocontent in the CDS in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 38A is a diagram of a balloon with a flexible screen coupled to apower supply and controller that incorporates a transceiver inaccordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 38B is a diagram of a scent generator having a controller with anintegrated transceiver in accordance with an example implementation.

FIG. 39 is a flow diagram of a CDS configuration approach in accordancewith an example implementation.

Remaining Figures are diagrams of user interface displayed on a smartdevice in accordance with an example implementation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A celebration decoration approach is described that is suitable for acake that enables visual and audible display shows. A remote controller,such as a smart device, may control the show or an onboard controllermay be configured to control the show depending upon the embodiment. Insome implementations of the invention, the smart device comprises asmartphone, such as an iPhone®, iPad®, Android® Phone, tablet, acomputer, etc., running a suitable control program or application.

In FIG. 1 , diagram 100 of a candle holder 102 with a candle 104 havinga control area 106 and flame detector 108 is depicted in accordance withan example implementation of the invention. The candle holder 102 has acontroller 110, power supply 112, and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 114.An example of a flame detector 108 is a thermocouple that runs thelength of the candle 104, that when burned, activates the controller 110and results in the activation of a program, display, and/or “show” usingthe LEDs. In other implementations, additional devices, speakers,displays, microphones, and cameras may be controlled by the controllerand part of the show.

Turning to FIG. 2A, diagram 200 of the candle holder 102 of FIG. 1 withthe light-emitting elements 114 illuminated is depicted in accordancewith an example implementation. The candle 104 portion may be made ofwax with the flame detector 108 inside. In other implementations, athermocouple or other flame detector 108 may be applied to the outsideof the candle. In yet other implementations, the candle may be anelectric candle and have one or more devices for turning it on and off,such as a switch, sensor, receiver, transmitter, or transceiver.

Turning to FIG. 2B, diagram 250 of the candle holder 102 of FIG. 1 withan offset candle holder well 252 is depicted in accordance with anexample implementation. The bottom of the candle holder well 252 has twocontact points 254 and 256 for the leads of the flame detector(thermocouple) 108. The flame detector may be implemented as a singleelement in the candle 104 (as shown in FIG. 2A) or multiple elements (asshown in FIG. 2B). An advantage of the offset candle holder well 252 isit aids in aligning the candle 104 in a known orientation forconnections with the contact points. The connection points are depictedas pads, but in other implementations, pins, slots, springs, or otherknown approaches for making removable electrical contacts may beemployed. In yet other implementations, the candle holder well may havea flat bottom rather than an offset.

In FIG. 3 , a diagram 300 of candle holder 102, as depicted in FIG. 1 ,and candle holder 302 (multiple candle holders) that communicate 304,306, and 308 between themselves 102, 302, and a smart device 310 aredepicted in accordance with an example implementation. In suchimplementations of the invention, a smart device 310 with aprocessor/controller 312 executing appropriate software orapplication(s) is in communication, (Bluetooth, wifi, infrared, etc. . .. ) with the controllers in the candle holders 102, 302, and controlsthe show. The candle holders 102, 302 are similar to ornaments andlights on a Christmas tree being controlled by a user interface on asmart device or at least creating a show that is downloaded by the smartdevice, such as smart device 310. The communication between elements ofthe CDS, such as candle holders and smart devices may be wireless orwired, or a combination of wired and wireless depending upon theembodiment.

Turning to FIG. 4 , diagram 400 of a candle holder 402 with a display404 and a candle 406 is depicted in accordance with an exampleimplementation of the invention. A bendable of flexible display 404,such as an OLED display, is wrapped around the candle holder 402 (suchas a display made by FLEXENABLE LIMITED, 34 Cambridge Science Park, CB40FX, UK). In some implementations, the display 404 substantiallycomprises the body of the candle holder 402. A controller, transceiver,and power supply are located within the candle holder 402. Dependingupon the display 404 and controller, video images or still images, or acombination of video and static images may be incorporated into a showand displayed on the display 404 in some implementations.

In FIG. 5 a diagram 500 of the candle holder 402 of FIG. 4 that has acamera 502, microphone 504, and a speaker 506 is depicted in accordancewith an example implementation. A controller coupled to a transceiverand speaker 506 and the power supply are located within the candleholder 402. The speaker 506 may play audio that is pre-recorded andloaded into a memory located within the controller or attached to thecontroller, received from a smart device or other transmitters (i.e.Bluetooth, WiFi, radio, etc.). In some implementations, the audio may befrom a remote location, such as from a well-wisher (i.e. grandmother inanother state or country) via an application (i.e. Skype, Whatsapp, orcustom application) located on a smart device at that remote location.In some implementations, content is transmitted to and received by thecandle holder 402 or the CDS device via Bluetooth, WiFi, radio, etc.

Turning to FIG. 6 , a diagram 600 of candle holders 602, 604 that coupletogether with a bus 606 that enables communication and emits light isdepicted in accordance with an example implementation of the invention.In other implementations, the bus 606 may not emit light. The candleholders 602 and 604 are hubs that enable a bus (with LED cords in thecurrent implementation) to be connected and controlled. A predeterminednumber of termination points 608, 610 in the candle holder 602 createsthe hub. The termination points supply power and communication busconnections, depending upon the implementation. The LED cords may be asingle color or multiple colors depending upon the implementation.Multiple candle holders and at least one controller 612 may be coupledtogether by the bus and candle holder 602, 604 hubs. A serialcommunication protocol (such as I²C) may also be used when communicatingbetween controllers and devices such as displays and candle holders,depending upon the implementation. In other implementations, other typesof protocols may be employed.

In FIG. 7 , diagram 700 of a display 702 resting on top of a cake 704with a controller 706 and power supply 708 located in a base is depictedin accordance with an example implementation of the invention. Thedisplay (LED, OLED, LCD, or similar display) 702 is located on the topof the cake. Areas of the display may be defined to hold a candle holder710 for candle holders as previously described, such as candle holder712. In other implementations, holes may be disposed of or defined inthe display to enable candles or candle holders to be placed directlyinto the top of the cake. In some preferred embodiments, the candles orcandle holders may comprise electronic candles or display candle holdersas previously described. The display 702 is connected via a wire orwirelessly, depending upon the embodiment, to the base that supports thecake 704. The base has a power supply 708 and controller 706 thatcontrol the display 702. The power supply 708 in the base may be abattery, wired, induction, or wireless power. In some embodiments, thebase includes speakers or other sound generating devices that arecapable of generating sound associated with the content displayed on theaforementioned display 702 on top of the cake 704 and/or on one or moreof the aforementioned electronic candles.

Turning to FIG. 8 , a diagram 800 of a display 802 around the sidecircumference of the cake 804 with a power supply 808 and controller 806located in a base is depicted in accordance with an exampleimplementation of the invention. The display 802 is connected via a wireor wirelessly, depending upon the embodiment, to the base that supportsthe cake 804. The base has a power supply 808 and controller 806 thatcontrol the display 802. The power supply 808 in the base may be abattery, wired, or wireless power. In other embodiments, a display ofFIG. 7 and FIG. 8 may both be located on a cake 804. In someimplementations of the invention, a mechanical turntable is incorporatedinto the base providing a means for the cake and the CDS to rotate. Insome preferred embodiments, control of the turntable (start, stop,speed, coordinated play with CDS and other devices, etc.) is by a smartdevice running code or one or more applications to effectuate suchcontrol. In some implementations of the invention, such motion isresponsive to cues in a show performed by the CDS.

FIG. 9 is a diagram 900 of a screen dome 902 located on top of a cake904 that receives a projection from a projector 906 with a controller908 and power supply 910 located in a base in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The projector 906 is located under the screen dome 902and projects an image onto it. The power supply 910 and controller 908are coupled to the projector 906 is located in the base. In someembodiments, a plurality of projectors is located under the screen dome902, and multiple simultaneous projections may be viewed. In someembodiments, the projection comprises a holographic projection or a 3Dvideo projection. In some embodiments of the invention, a curved orflexible screen is disposed on all or part of the dome.

In some implementations of the invention the base is configured to be aplate for a cake or other foodstuff and the dome is configured toprovide a cover that fits over the plate and provides a seal to helpkeep a cake or other foodstuff disposed on the plate fresh in a mannersimilar to that used by a Plate Topper™.

Turning to FIG. 10 , a diagram of a candle holder 1002 with a microphone1004 and a camera 1006 is depicted in accordance with an exampleimplementation of the invention. A power supply 1008 and controller 1010may be located within the candle holder. In other implementations, awired or wireless communication and or power connection may be made to apower supply and controller.

In FIG. 11 , a diagram 1100 of a candle holder 1102 with a screen 1104located around the outside circumference with a microphone 1106 and acamera 1108 is depicted in accordance with an example implementation ofthe invention. A power supply 1110 and controller 1112 may be locatedwithin the candle holder 1102. In other implementations, a wired orwireless communication via a transceiver and or power connection may bemade to a power supply 1110 and controller 1112.

Turning to FIG. 12 , a diagram 1200 of a candle holder 1202 with adisplay 1204 located around the top with a microphone 1206 and a camera1208 in accordance with an example implementation of the invention. Apower supply 1210 and controller 1212 may be located within the candleholder. In other implementations, a wired or wireless communication andor power connection may be made to a power supply and controller.

In FIG. 13 , a diagram 1300 of the candle holder of FIG. 102 with wires1302 connecting the candle holder 102 through the cake 1304 to thecontroller 1306 and power supply 1308 located in a base in accordancewith an example implementation. In the current implementation the wires1302 act as a power and communication bus. In other implementations, thewires 1302 may only be a communication or power bus.

FIG. 14 is diagram 1400 of a block candle holder 1402 with a displayscreen 1404 atop a cake 1406 in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The block candle holder 1402 contains the candle holders1408, 1410, 1412 integrated into a housing with a power supply, display1404, transceiver, and controller.

In FIG. 15 , a block diagram 1500 of the candle holder 102 of FIG. 1 isdepicted in accordance with an example implementation. A controller 1502is in communication with LEDs 114, memory 1506, power supply 1508, andtransceiver 1510. The transceiver 1510 allows the controller 1502 tocommunicate with other devices such as a smart device, fragrance device,wearable devices, televisions, or other candle type devices. Thecontroller 1502 may be a microprocessor, such as an INTEL or AMDprocessor, a microcontroller, such as a PARALLAX, Microchip TechnologyPIC, ATmega328 microcontroller, digital logic implemented as a statemachine, analog state machine, or a combination of any of the above. Thepower supply 1508 may be a battery, capacitor, inductive, wired, or acombination of any of the above. The transceiver 1510 may be a separatetransmitter and receiver that enables Bluetooth, WiFi, RF radio, or acombination of the above. In some embodiments, the smart devicecomprises a smartphone.

Turning to FIG. 16 , a block diagram 1600 of the candle holder 402 ofFIG. 4 is depicted in accordance with an example implementation. Adisplay (LED, OLED, LCD, a cathode-ray tube, or similar technology) 404is coupled to the controller 1602. The controller 1602 is also coupledto memory 1604, power supply 1606, and transceiver 1608. Otherimplementations having displays may be implemented in a similar manner.

In FIG. 17 , a block diagram 1700 of induction power supply 1702powering of a display 702 located on a cake 704 of FIG. 7 in accordancewith an example implementation. The controller 706 is coupled to thedisplay 702, memory 1704, transceiver 1708, and an induction powerreceiver 1706 that is located in base 708. The base is set on top of theinduction power supply 1702 and powers the CDS via the induction powerreceiver 1706.

In FIG. 18 , a block diagram 1800 of a CDS with a display 1802, candleholder 1804, and motor controller 1806 is depicted in accordance with anexample implementation. The controller 1808 is coupled to a motorcontrol 1806 that operates a motor 1810 to move a decoration by or onthe cake. The controller 1808 is also depicted as coupled to a speaker1812, LED (lighting element) 1814, camera 1816, sensors 1818, candleinterface 1820, along with a battery 1822, memory 1824, display 1802,and transceiver 1826. The transceiver 1826 communicates with externaldevices 1828, such as smart devices or other CDS decorations, forexample, wearables, aroma machines, ornaments, streaming devices, andsmart speakers. Sensors 1818 include light, sound, touch, infrared,Relays, buzzers, reed switches, photo-interrupt,Analog-to-Digital/Digital-to-Analog converters, moisture,potentiometers, analog hall sensor, temperature, thermistor,photoresistor, gas, rotary encoder, barometer, level, ultrasonic, andjoystick to name but a few examples. The controller may be used toexecute a program that is called a “show.” A show may integrate music,lights, images, and video that is displayed on one or more displays andspeakers of the CDS. Cameras and speakers may be used in the CDS tocapture sound and images (still and video) and transmit to externaldevices 1828 and devices attached to the internet or another network1830.

Turning to FIG. 19 is a diagram 1900 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 with a user interface tocreate a CDS account 1920 in accordance with an example implementation.A user of the CDS enters an email address in the “Enter Email Address”Box 1908 and a password into the “Enter Password” box 1910. After thedata is entered, the “Create Account” button 1912 may be selected. Oncea CDS account is created, a confirmation email is sent to the emailaccount (that can also be an email validation confirmation), and an“Account Created” confirmation 1914 is displayed on screen 1902. Theuser may then go to account setup by selecting the “Go To System Setup”button 1916. It is noted that in some implementations, the “Go To SystemSetup” button 1916 may be greyed until the email account has beenvalidated. It is noted a pulldown menu 1918 is present in the currentimplementation and enables a user to go to other screens, such as helpscreen, access the manual, and customer service, jump to other areas ofthe user interface.

In FIG. 20 a diagram 2000 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 with a system setup interface 2002 isdepicted in accordance with an example implementation. A user may add anew CDS system by selecting the “ADD A NEW SYSTEM” button 2004. A CDSdevice may be added to an existing CDS system by selecting the “ADD ACDS DEVICE” 2006. If a non-CDS device is desired to be added to anexisting CDS system, then the “ADD ANOTHER DEVICE” button 2008 isselected. The pulldown menu 1918 is also present on the system setupinterface 2002.

Turning to FIG. 21 , a diagram 2100 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 with a new system setupinterface 2102 is depicted in accordance with an example implementation.The name of the CDS system is entered into the “NAME SYSTEM” text box2104. The setting up of the system may be canceled by selecting the“CANCEL” button 2106 or if a name has been entered into text box 210,the “DONE” button 2108 may be selected to have the system name entered.When text is being entered into a text box, the CDS application 1906 maybring up a soft keyboard 2110 that a user may use to enter text. Apulldown menu 1918 may also be present on the new system setup interface2102. The entries in the pulldown menu 1918 may change depending uponwhich system interface page is being accessed.

In FIG. 22 , diagram 2200 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 with an add system HUB interface 2202 isdepicted in accordance with an example implementation. In order to add aHUB, the button for the type of HUB to add is selected. A HUB is adevice that is able to communicate with and control multiple devices(CDS devices and non-CDS devices) in the CDS system. For a Module HUB(Non-CDS device HUB), the “MODULE HUB” button 2204 is selected. To add aCDS device HUB, the “CDS DEVICE HUB” button 2206 is selected. A pulldownmenu 1918 and back button 2208 may also be available on the add systemHUB interface 2202.

Turning to FIG. 23 , a diagram 2300 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 that identifies the systemmodule HUB interface 2302 for the HUB selected in FIG. 22 is depicted inaccordance with an example implementation. The interface is accessed inresponse to the selection of the “MODULE HUB” button 2204 of FIG. 22.The serial number of the module HUB is entered into the SERIAL NUMBERtext box 2304. The soft keyboard 2110 may be presented for entry of themodule HUB's serial number. If a QR code is on the module HUB, it may bescanned using a camera that may be part of the smart device 1904. Inorder to scan a QR code, the “SCAN QR CODE” button 2306 is selected andthen the QR code is read by a camera in the smart device 1904. Theresulting serial number that is scanned, is then placed into the SERIALNUMBER text box 204. Once the serial number is entered, the “DONE”button 2308 may be pressed and the entered serial number saved in thememory of the CDS.

In FIG. 24 , a diagram 2400 of a screen 1920 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 provides an interface 2402 that pairsthe system HUB with the CDS for the HUB selected in FIG. 22 is depictedin accordance with an example implementation. The module hub is pluggedin and/or energized. Once an indicator, such as a flashing LED lightidentifies that module hub to be in a pairing state, the “PAIR” button2404 in the interface 2404 is selected to pair the device with the CDSsystem. A pulldown menu 1918 and back button 2208 may also be present inthe interface 2402.

In FIG. 25 , a diagram 2500 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 and provides an interface 2502 thatconfigures WiFi for the module HUB of FIG. 22 is depicted in accordancewith an example implementation. The user is able to open the settings ofthe paired module HUB by pressing the “OPEN SETTINGS” button 2504. Onethe module HUB is connected to Wifi, the user is returned to the CDSapplication 1906. The pulldown menu 1918 and back button 2208 aredepicted in the user interface 2502.

Turning to FIG. 26 , a diagram of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904that executes a CDS application 1906 with an interface 2602 foraccessing WiFi from the module HUB of FIG. 22 is depicted in accordancewith an example implementation. A list of found WiFi networks isprovided in window 2604 in the user interface 2502. The user selectswhich network to join by picking the network in window 2604 using thetouch screen or pointer device of the smart device 1904. Once selected,the login and password are entered in the textboxes 2606 and 2608. Oncethe data is entered, the SYNC Confirmed indicator 2610 will change colorfrom red to green if the module HUB is operating on the selected WiFinetwork. The pulldown menu 1918 and back button 2208 are depicted in theuser interface 2602.

It is noted that a similar approach (FIGS. 23-26 ) as used to configurea module HUB is used to configure a CDS device HUB by selecting “CDSDEVICE HUB” button 2206 in figure.

In FIG. 27 , a diagram 2700 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 with an interface 2702 that adds a CDSdevice to the CDS system is depicted in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The user either selects the button “ADD A CDS DEVICE”2704 or “ADD ANOTHER DEVICE” 2706 depending upon the type of devicebeing added to the CDS system. A MAIN MENU button 2708 may be present inthe interface 2702 for returning to the main menu. A list of CDS devicesmay also be accessed in the interface 2702 by selecting the CDS DEVICESbutton 2710.

Turning to FIG. 28 , a diagram 2800 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 that has a user interface 2802that adds a CDS device in accordance with an example implementation. Theserial number of the CDS device is added in the text box 2804 either byscanning a QR code with the “SCAN QR CODE” button 2806 or directlyentering the data. In other implementations, different codes other thanQR codes may be used to enter the serial number. These other codesinclude codes accessed in a memory or other visible codes that may bemechanically read. Once the serial number is entered in the CDS DeviceSerial Number textbox 2804 the user may select the “DONE” button 2808 tocommit the serial number in the memory of the system.

In FIG. 29 , a diagram 2900 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 that has a user interface that controlsa “show” in accordance with an example implementation. The CDS display2902 shows the CDS devices (cake display 2904, candles 2906, 2908, and2910) that are arrangeable within the display 2902. The images in thedisplay may be rotated using the rotate button 2912 in the CDS display2902. A picture of the live room and decorations may be captured anddisplayed on CDS display 2902 using the camera button 2914. A user mayswitch between the picture view and a graphical image view of the CDS inthe CDS display 2902 using the graphic button 2916. The volume of a“show” may be set using the volume slider 2918. The brightness of the“show” may also be set using slider 2920. The “show” may be turned offusing the all off button 2924 or muted using the mute button 2922. Anindication of the signal strength of the signal with the CDS devices isdepicted in graphic 2926. The interface may also have the dropdown menu1918, back button 2208, main menu button 2708, and CDS device listbutton 2710.

Turning to FIG. 30 , a diagram 3000 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 provides an interface 3002that lists the CDS devices configured is depicted in accordance with anexample implementation. A list of the different configured CDS devicesis provided 3004-3014 which are each editable 3016-3026. Multiple pagesof CDS devices may be configured with the “NEXT PAGE” button 3028 and“PREVIOUS PAGE” button 3030 is used to move between pages in theinterface 3002. The interface 3002 may also have the dropdown menu 1918,back button 2208, main menu button 2708, and CDS device list button2710.

In FIG. 31 , a diagram 3100 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 that provides a user interface for theplaylist of shows 3102 is depicted in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The different shows are listed and if needed, additionalpages may be accessed. Content may be added with the “ADD CONTENT”button 3104 and a new playlist loaded with the “LOAD NEW PLAYLIST”button 3106. The interface 3102 may also have the dropdown menu 1918,back button 2208, main menu button 2708, and CDS device list button2710.

Turning to FIG. 32 , a diagram 3200 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 that provides an interface toadd content 3202 in the CDS in accordance with an exampleimplementation. Photographs, Holiday content, special offer content,loading content into a playlist, and just browsing CDS applicationcontent can be achieved in the interface to add content 3202. Theinterface 3202 may also have the dropdown menu 1918, back button 2208,main menu button 2708, and CDS device list button 2710.

In FIG. 33 , a diagram 3300 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 with a user interface 3302 that enablescontent to be edited in the CDS in accordance with an exampleimplementation. Content loaded in FIG. 32 , may be edited using thecontrols and button in user interface 3302. The interface 3302 may alsohave the dropdown menu 1918, back button 2208, main menu button 2708,and CDS device list button 2710.

Turning to FIG. 34 , a diagram 3400 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 with an interface 3402 thatfurther enables content to be edited in the CDS in accordance with anexample implementation is depicted. The interface 3402 may also have thedropdown menu 1918, back button 2208, main menu button 2708, and CDSdevice list button 2710.

In FIG. 35 , a diagram 3500 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 with a special effects interface 3502that enables special effects to be added to content in the CDS inaccordance with an example implementation. Videos may be layered, andpredefined effects added, such as fading in, fading out, animations,ect. . . . . The interface 3502 may also have the dropdown menu 1918,back button 2208, main menu button 2708, and CDS device list button2710.

Turning to FIG. 36 , a diagram 3600 of a screen 1902 of a smart device1904 that executes a CDS application 1906 with a layer videos interface3602 that enables special effects of layering to be added to content inthe CDS in accordance with an example implementation. Videos to belayered may be selected and the layered videos combined and previewed.If the layering is acceptable, the layered video can be saved. Theinterface 3602 may also have the dropdown menu 1918, back button 2208,main menu button 2708, and CDS device list button 2710.

In FIG. 37 , a diagram 3700 of a screen 1902 of a smart device 1904 thatexecutes a CDS application 1906 with an In-App Content interface 3702that enables special effects, such as patterns to be added to content inthe CDS in accordance with an example implementation. The interface 3702may also have the dropdown menu 1918, back button 2208, main menu button2708, and CDS device list button 2710.

Turning to FIG. 38A, a diagram 3800 of a balloon 3802 with a flexiblescreen 3804 coupled to a power supply 3806 and controller 3806 thatincorporates a transceiver is depicted in accordance with an exampleimplementation. The balloon 3802 is an example of a CDS device and canbe configured as other CDS devices. Flexible screen balloons that are“smart deco,” i.e., interact with each other, CDS, in someimplementations act as independent devices, and interact with athird-party system (e.g., iHoliday SmartDecco). In otherimplementations, the screen and controllers, sensors, and transceiversare affixed to a standard balloon making a standard balloon or anotherdevice a CDS device.

In FIG. 38B, a diagram 3850 of a scent generator 3852 having acontroller 3854 with an integrated transceiver is depicted in accordancewith an example implementation. The scent generator 3852 is anotherexample of a CDS device and can be configured as other CDS devices. Inother implementations, electronic devices such as toys, drones,interactive picture frames and other smart decco, smart clothing may beconfigured as CDS devices and included in a CDS “show.” Just as screensmay be placed on cakes and candles, CDS screens may be placed on platesand cutlery. The screens can be coordinate with pieces of cake or piethat have smaller screens affixed to them (e.g. on the top or side of apiece). Furthermore, cake camera(s) can be placed on cakes (similar tocandle cameras) to capture the candle being blown out and otherfestivities.

Turning to FIG. 39 , a flow diagram of a CDS configuration approach isdepicted in accordance with an example implementation. A CDS system andHUB are configured in step 3902. Devices that may be used in the CDSsystem are defined in step 3904. Content is added, such as video, music,and pictures in step 3906. A show or playlist is defined using the CDSHUB, CDS devices, and content in step 3908. The show or playlist isexecuted in step 3910. In some implementations, the defined elements CDSHUB s, CDS devices, and content are stored and accessed from theinternet or “cloud” via a network.

It will be understood and is appreciated by persons skilled in the art,that one or more approaches, processes, sub-processes, or process stepsdescribed may be performed by hardware and/or software (machine-readableinstructions). If the approach is performed by software, the softwaremay reside in software memory in a suitable electronic processingcomponent or system such as one or more of the functional components ormodules schematically depicted in the figures.

The software in software memory may include an ordered listing ofexecutable instructions for implementing logical functions (that is,“logic” that may be implemented either in digital form such as digitalcircuitry or source code or in analog form such as analog circuitry oran analog source such an analog electrical, sound or video signal), andmay selectively be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use byor in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, ordevice, such as a computer-based system, processor containing system, orother system that may selectively fetch the instructions from theinstruction execution system, apparatus, or device and execute theinstructions. In the context of this disclosure, a “computer-readablemedium” is any tangible means that may contain or store the program foruse by or in connection with the instruction execution system,apparatus, or device. The tangible computer readable medium mayselectively be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic,magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, or semiconductor system, apparatusor device. More specific examples, but nonetheless a non-exhaustivelist, of tangible computer-readable media would include the following: aportable computer diskette (magnetic), a RAM (electronic), a read-onlymemory “ROM” (electronic), an erasable programmable read-only memory(EPROM or Flash memory) (electronic) and a portable compact discread-only memory “CDROM” (optical). Note that the tangiblecomputer-readable medium may even be paper (punch cards or punch tape)or another suitable medium upon which the instructions may beelectronically captured, then compiled, interpreted or otherwiseprocessed in a suitable manner if necessary, and stored in a computermemory.

In preferred implementations of the invention the CDS can communicateand display content on one or more CDS displays in coordination withdisplays on other devices and/or other functions performed on otherdevices, such as smart phones, smart balloon devices, drones,interactive ornament devices, such as those as described in U.S. Pat.Nos. 7,248,230 and/or 8,462,079, interactive drumstick controllers, suchas those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,117,427 and/or 9,502,012, andwearable computer devices and digital name tag devices, such as nametags with proximity capacity. The text of each of the aforementionedUnited States patents is included by reference in their respectiveentirety as though set forth in full.

In some embodiments of the invention the aforementioned smart balloondevices comprise balloons that comprise or have disposed on all or partof their surface a flexible digital display, one or more controllerdevices and a power supply capable of wirelessly receiving content fordisplay on the aforementioned digital display.

In some preferred implementations of the invention the CDS is controlledby voice recognition means.

In some preferred implementations of the invention the show displayed onthe CDS is displayed in coordination with content displayed on one ormore smart devices and/or one or more virtual reality devices.

In some preferred embodiments of the invention the aforementionedcoordination includes a summoning feature that enables users running anCDS app that enables notification of the commencement of a CDS show thatthe show has commenced or is about to commence. In some embodiments ofthe invention, this feature also provides to such users a graphicallocation of the cake or other item on which the CDS display(s) arecurrently located.

In some implementations of the invention content is provided to the CDSvia one or more applications running on one or more smart devices asdepicted in the remaining figures.

The foregoing detailed description of one or more embodiments of theapproach for a CDS has been presented herein by way of example only andnot limitation. It will be recognized that there are advantages tocertain individual features and functions described herein that may beobtained without incorporating other features and functions describedherein. Moreover, it will be recognized that various alternatives,modifications, variations, or improvements of the above-disclosedembodiments and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof,may be desirably combined into many other different embodiments, systemsor applications. Presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives,modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequentlymade by those skilled in the art which are also intended to beencompassed by the appended claims. Therefore, the spirit and scope ofany appended claims should not be limited to the description of theembodiments contained herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A cake decoration system, comprising: acontroller, a visual element, a power source, a candle holder adapted tohold a candle with a controller coupled to the visual element and thepower source located within the candle holder, and a cake display systemexecuted on a mobile device in communication with the controller.